Angela Cullen, a key figure in the world of Formula 1, recently made a bold statement that rocked the motorsport world. Following Lewis Hamilton’s disappointment at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Cullen publicly revealed his reasons for leaving Ferrari after working alongside the seven-time world champion. Her decision surprised many, especially given that the bond between Cullen and Hamilton seemed solid and strong, but recent events have led them to part ways.
During the interview, Angela Cullen described several personal and professional factors that contributed to her decision to leave the Maranello-based team. “Lewis’s difficulties at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix were the culmination of several factors that could no longer be ignored,” Cullen said. Ferrari failed to provide him with the right car to showcase his talent. At a team like Ferrari, where the pressure is always on, there’s no room for uncertainty, and Lewis has heard that at every stage of his career with the team.
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari from Mercedes with high expectations, had a difficult start to this season. Not only did he struggle to achieve the expected results, but he also struggled with the car, which didn’t seem to live up to his expectations and the level he wanted to achieve. After the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Hamilton finished behind teammate Charles Leclerc, the atmosphere within the team became increasingly tense.
Cullen admitted that the decision to leave Ferrari was not an easy one, but that he considered the step necessary for his professional well-being. “It’s not just race results that make the difference, but also how a driver feels within the team. The culture they live in and the support they receive are crucial. If that’s missing, it’s difficult to maintain motivation,” he explained. “I never doubted that Lewis was an exceptional driver, but his mood began to change. I could see his frustration growing, and that influenced my decision to leave.
Unfortunately, Ferrari struggled to provide Hamilton with a competitive car, and the performance degradation impacted not only the driver but also the team behind him. Cullen added that the team failed to give Hamilton the support he needed at a crucial moment in his career. It was clear that Hamilton wasn’t getting what he deserved. Ferrari hadn’t kept its promises to Lewis. It’s difficult working under these conditions, and I also felt that my role no longer aligned with what I wanted to do professionally.
His decision sparked mixed reactions from Formula 1 fans and pundits. Some claimed Cullen was trying to defend Hamilton and his decisions, while others suggested his resignation stemmed from deeper differences with Ferrari management. Indeed, Cullen’s statements only heightened doubts about the team’s internal dynamics, which is already under scrutiny due to Hamilton’s poor performance.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was particularly difficult for Hamilton, who finished the race far from the top of the standings, while Leclerc continued to dominate the team. Rumors of a possible return to Mercedes had already circulated, but the current focus is on his next steps and the support he receives from his closest colleagues. Cullen, however, is no longer part of that picture, and his absence will be felt within the team.
In short, Angela Cullen’s departure from Ferrari marks a significant turning point in Hamilton’s season. The difficulties the driver experienced with the car and the frustration he felt also had a significant impact on his team. Cullen’s decision to move was driven by a desire to align his professional path with his personal values. However, his departure raises questions about the challenges that await Hamilton and Ferrari in their quest for competitiveness. It will be interesting to see how the team responds to the difficulties of this season and whether it can return to the track in time for the upcoming races.
